Groves vs Smith: Why is the World Boxing Super Series final in Saudi Arabia?

The WBSS final takes place in unusual territory as WBA champion George Grives defends his title against Callum Smith in huge domestic clash

By Thomas Lyons

28th September 2018, 2:59 pm

Updated: 28th September 2018, 3:00 pm

WHEN the World Boxing Super Series final was announced, the first thing that played on boxing fans' minds was whether George Groves be replaced after sustaining a shoulder injury in his fight with Chris Eubank Jr.

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Why is Groves vs Smith being held in Saudi Arabia?

Promoter Kalle Sauerland claims holding Groves vs Smith in Saudi Arabia will help raise the profile of boxing in the Middle Eastern region.

Sauerland said: “What’s really interesting is there is potential for a long-term relationship in the region to bring what we believe is the biggest event in boxing, the Champions League of boxing: the WBSS and its final, which will only get bigger and bigger every year.

“So the question of why has this worked? That’s very much credit to the WBSS brand.

"This is an event of a massive magnitude, which the GSA acquired without knowing who would be in the final. It was about the WBSS final being staged in Jeddah. That speaks to the brand, without a doubt.

“People say it’s just about money, but that’s simply not true. Of course, finances are a factor, but there would probably be more attractive offers from UK football stadiums.

"It’s about building something that is sustainable. That’s what the WBSS is about. It’s not about a one-off event. That’s a very clear message.”

The fight is being held on Friday night as it is peak viewing time in Saudi Arabia, which has a Sunday-Thursday working week.

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